Firearm by Felon Lawyer Shenandoah County — Defending Prohibited Persons
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Shenandoah County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, punishable by a mandatory minimum of two years in prison. As a firearm by felon lawyer Shenandoah County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for prohibited persons. We have documented results defending clients in Shenandoah County General District Court and Circuit Court.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by Felons
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, is a primary tool for prosecutors. A separate charge exists for possession of ammunition by a felon. The law applies regardless of how the firearm was obtained or how long ago the felony conviction occurred.
Last verified: April 2026 | Shenandoah County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2. Court procedures and forms for Shenandoah County can be found on the Shenandoah County General District Court website.
Defense Strategy for a Prohibited Person Gun Charge in Shenandoah County
An effective defense for a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Shenandoah County must start immediately. In Shenandoah County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the firearm. We examine whether the firearm was in your actual possession or merely present in a shared space, like a vehicle or home.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact our firm to secure representation before any statements are made to law enforcement.
- Evidence Challenge: We file motions to suppress evidence obtained from illegal searches or seizures under the Fourth Amendment.
- Possession Defense: We argue you did not have actual or constructive possession of the firearm, challenging the prosecution’s core claim.
- Record Examination: We verify the validity of the prior felony conviction that forms the basis of the prohibition.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue dismissal, reduction of charges, or argue your case at trial in Shenandoah County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction
In Shenandoah County, a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence and creates another felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years, up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record; loss of civil rights; federal prosecution possible. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Shenandoah County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a thorough understanding of Virginia’s firearm laws and the local courts. We focus on building a defense that protects your rights and future.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a record of advocating for clients facing serious charges. In Shenandoah County, we have secured favorable outcomes in criminal cases. For example, we have successfully argued for the suppression of evidence and negotiated reductions in charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Shenandoah County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients throughout the Shenandoah Valley. We are accessible via I-81 and Route 11. We are a firearm by felon defense lawyer near Shenandoah County Courthouse in Woodstock.
We serve the communities of Woodstock, Edinburg, Strasburg, Mount Jackson, Toms Brook, and New Market.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
FAQs: Firearm by Felon Charges in Shenandoah County
What is the penalty for a felon with a gun in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony with a mandatory minimum two-year prison sentence, up to five years, and a fine up to $2,500 under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2.
Can a prohibited person ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law allows for restoration of firearm rights for certain non-violent felons through a Governor’s pardon or by having their civil rights restored by the Governor and then petitioning a circuit court. This is a complex legal process requiring specific criteria.
What if the firearm wasn’t mine and I was just in the car?
This is a common defense. The prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the firearm. Mere presence near a gun is not enough. A strong defense argues lack of actual or constructive possession.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge?
Yes. The mandatory prison sentence and lifelong consequences make immediate legal representation critical. A skilled firearm by felon lawyer Shenandoah County can challenge the evidence and protect your rights from the start.
Can a prior felony conviction be challenged in this type of case?
Yes. The entire charge depends on a valid prior felony conviction. A defense may involve examining the legality of that prior conviction, including whether you had effective counsel or if your rights were violated.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Shenandoah County and criminal defense in nearby Frederick County. For a broader overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.